Cabinet change announced in York

The council’s Cabinet is set for a new make-up after the Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, Coun. Sandy Fraser, announced his decision to return to the backbenches.

He will be succeeded in the portfolio by Coun. David Levene, the Labour councillor representing Heslington ward.

Coun. Fraser said the decision was one that he had thought long and hard about, and concluded had to be made. He comments:

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time serving on the Labour Cabinet over the past year and feel I have made good progress in establishing and developing the new portfolio concerned with crime and community safety.

“But in recent months I have given serious consideration to the amount of time which the position of Cabinet Member demands and the tying nature of the position generally.

“My feeling this May was that I would step down next May, but it has become clear to me that I don’t wish to wait until then, and that I should stand aside now and give the opportunity for a colleague to step up and continue in what will be a very challenging, yet rewarding role in the months ahead.

“The Government’s cuts are a having major impact in this portfolio, so it will require someone with a sense of perspective and drive to ensure we maintain what is an excellent service to York residents. Coun. Levene will do a great job I’m convinced”.

Coun. David Levene, incoming Cabinet Member for Environmental Services and the youngest ever York councillor to take on a Cabinet portfolio, says:

“I’m delighted to have been chosen to take on this role and can’t wait to get going. I’m well aware of what a challenging portfolio it will be, but feel I’m up to the challenge and look forward to joining my cabinet colleagues in protecting residents against the worst effects of the Government’s cuts”.

Labour Leader of City of York Council, Coun. James Alexander, who has appointed Coun. Levene to his new position, says:

“I want to thank Coun. Fraser for his hard work, dedication and achievements during his time on the Cabinet. Sometimes personal reasons dictate that someone needs to stand aside, but this does not dilute the impact and contribution that that person has made.

“I know Coun. Fraser will continue to play a keen supporting role in what we are trying to achieve for the city and its residents in the years ahead.

“Coun. Levene will play a key role in the Cabinet in driving forward the change required within his portfolio and I look forward to working with him and to the contribution he has to make”.